Holey Mercey (Auckland) Karekare, North Island, New Zealand
By s01ipsist on 17-May-08. Waypoint GC1C9CV

Just a few weeks ago, being profoundly bored at school, I hit up the geocaching map for a little scroll around and I randomly stumbled upon this cache with a high terrain rating... Intrigued, I investigated further and could not believe what my eyes were reading - THIS LOOKS ABSOLUTELY INSANE ! With all my exams finished, Friday was mine and without a doubt, I was heading to Mercer Bay to pursue what sounded like an exhilarating adventure. Unlike most, I deciding on attempting this cache alone to make it all the more special

As an extremely passionate adventurer, it's hard to put into words how excited I was feeling on the drive to Mercer Bay... My heart was pumping so fast, to the point where I needed to pull over in the middle of the Waitakere's to drink some water and calm down. A short while later, stepping out of my car door after arriving at the carpark, the song "The Final Countdown" was playing on repeat through my head - Finally, after many weeks of dreaming and fantasising, the moment was HERE, and my word were the views already outstanding! After beginning my descend, I chuckled as I saw the "Danger" sign informing me that I should turn back - Ain't no way was I turning back

However, I soon realised how much danger I was putting myself in, as not only was I attempting this alone, but also the conditions were extremely poor! With all the recent rain including a heavy downpour earlier this morning, the goat track was unbelievably slippery, particularly the "Rocky" areas and the clay honestly felt like a mudslide. One foot in the wrong spot and I was sure to be sent tumbling down the steep cliff... My eyes lit up with excitement as I approached the first rope section, but this turned out to be the scariest of the lot as the rope was drenched, with ooozing brown mud and my hands had no grip whatsoever! Somehow I made it down, and fortunately the rest of the way to the beach was a lot more straightforward

Before I knew it, I'd set foot on sand and had the ENTIRE beach to myself... I explored the whole area for over 2 hours and during that time, not a single person was of sight! How good was this... Friday arvo, pursuing an incredible adventure, and temporarily claiming Mercer Bay as mine . I just about got too carried away with the beauty and isolation of this place that I almost forgot about the cache. But that was almost the best part because the cave was out of this world! Finding the cache was of little difficulty (Thanks rustynz for the replacement), and adding my name to the logbook felt amazing...

What felt like 5 minutes, turned out to be multiple hours and sadly it was time to leave this stunning location behind and make tracks back to the carpark. Just as I thought I had walked away scotch free with no scrapes, cuts or anything, I almost had a terrifying accident which may have required a rescue helicopter had my landing been more severe. Whilst trying to snap some photos on the ascend, I was setting up my camera in position at rope section 2, but stood on a slippery flax and suddenly BOOM - everything beneath my feet tore apart and I was sent tumbling a solid 10 metres down with a mini-avalanche of rocks and clay following behind me... One large rock thumped on my left thigh, creating some pain, but I'm astounded I came out of that without any fractures/broken bones!

It was a slow haul up after that, but I was so fortunate to just have the odd bruise or two compared to what could've happened. WOW - I can certainly see why this cache is running at a 100% favourite rate... Such an intrepid adventure in a stunning location, couldn't ask for anything better! TFTC s01ipsist, of course FP given and thanks for filling in D/T #57 of mine Massive respect to anyone that's attempted this before - It's certainly not easy! Some photos are below

Wish I’d known about this latest visit as this cache has been on the want to do list for a long time. If anyone else wants to do it, let’s make a plan.

I received an email from rustynz asking if I was free to join a group of cachers to head to this infamous cache. I wasn't going to turn down an opportunity to come and find this cache, as it has been something I have wanted to do since 2016.

Met up with rustynz, Gorby, tramyard and lumin298 early afternoon. The carpark was quite full as the weather was gorgeous. We headed down the trail and started our descent. I think I had slightly underestimated just how far down it was to the beach. I spent most of the trip down trying not to slip on the damp rocks/clay. I was completely surprised when we reached the first rope and three other muggles appeared behind us hoping to pass. Thought that we'd have this 'goat' track to ourselves. Little did I know that they'd end up being about a dozen others down on the beach with us.

I think it took us longer than anticipated to get down, as we were trying to be careful on the slightly slippery path. We had timed it for the low tide, but we needed to have worried, as the tide was well out and not lapping at the entrance like we were expecting. Once the other muggles in the cave left we went in search of the cache, There has been a lot of rock falls and sand build up in here and a good effort was made to locate the cache. In the end, a replacement was left.

I started my ascent ahead of the others, as my calf muscles were giving me a bit of grief and I didn't want to be holding up the others too much. I had some of the other muggles for company as I pulled myself up on the rocks and whatever else I could use to hold onto. Eventually, the others caught up to me about two thirds of the way up. We managed to reach the main track just as the sun was starting to set, which created a wonderful image of Mercer Bay. Rusty, Lumin and I headed back via the longer loop path with a short detour to the lookout points. We ended up walking back along the track in the dark and soon had a call from Gorby informing us that the gates closed at 6pm. Well, it was 5.50pm but we were only a few hundred metres away from the carpark at this point. Ended up leaving with a few minutes to spare.

In the end I was glad that I went ahead with the plans to go. I wasn't feeling great in the morning, but I knew that I would seriously regret not going, as I wasn't sure if there would be another opportunity to venture down to Mercer Bay. Well, I'll tell you what. The pain I felt for the next few days in muscles that haven't been used as much during the entire pandemic (and the difficulty walking) was well worth it for the experience and the untouched beautiful environment that I saw. The fact that it's not easy to get to meant that only a few others were around and made it all the more special.

Thank you so much, for placing a cache here, and bringing me to this amazing location which I would have likely never even know about.

First heard about this one a few weeks ago, and it sounded awesome, so I was so glad to have made it here today with Gorby, Aiden29, rustynz and tramyard

The weather and tide times were perfect for an afternoon trip down to the caves. Going down was a bit hairy (gorse, near verticals, ropes, tree roots, rocks with not many places to hold onto, slippery dirt patches...) but we all made it to the beach without any injuries. Once down there we investigated the cave entrance to see if it was possible to get through, but decided a better approach would be around the base to the other side.

Walked along the beach a bit to the other opening of the cave and then inside, where a group of 3 who had passed us on the way down were just heading out. The cave was amazing - open to the sky way up above. We all had a good search for the cache but just couldn't find it. After 5 years, with a lot of changes in the area, it may be missing or buried under too many rocks. After a while the decision was made to replace it and we found a spot for it as per the hint. Then back down along the beach to check out the Sphinx before heading back up the way we came. I found going up a lot easier than going down, there was still a lot of scrambling and gorse scrapes but again we all made it back up with no injuries!

By this point it was getting near sunset, so instead of heading straight back, we took the longer track out to the lookout to watch the sun going down. Then finally back to the carpark, where we made it out a minute before the gates were due to close.

Even though the cache was probably no longer there, this was still an epic trip that I never would have done if there hadn't been a cache to bring us here. And now I've been once and seen how awesome the caves are down here, I'd really like to come back again So thank you so much to the CO for placing it to show us this spot, and thanks to everyone else who invited me along and made this adventure so much fun!

I see why this is running at 100% favourite points so of course I'm adding another!

Cache replaced, in front of large rock, there is a ledge under the rock. Reach in, the cache is on its side with a rock on top.

I`ve got invited to join RustyNZ and Gorby for "stroll" to Mercey Bay. We ended up in a small team : Aiden29,Gorby,Lumin298,RustyNZ and myself. First of all I did not imagine how is gonna be like as the pictures on cache page do not give that feedback. My short summary is: It was an absolutely an EPIC adventure to the one of the most spectacular (maybe the number 1) locations in Auckland Region. And the privilege to be with the previous Finders of the cache gave us an information how the Mercer Bay cave access changed over the last couple years ... Anyway we didn't find the original cache container so we replaced it. Many thanks for great day Folks , great company in stunning Mercer Bay!

Hey tramyard, lumin, rusty (welcome back!) Thanks so much for visiting, sharing your adventures, and replacing the cache. I live oceans away now but get such a thrill from the rare find logs.

Yet another visit to Mercer Bay, my 4th time here now. Once before geocaching, 3 times since. I can't get over how the sands have changed everything! You can no longer go in the first cave from where you come down the cliff face, there is sand right up to the ceiling. There is also a small lake right in the same place, and you can walk around it. It wasn't there in 2016 when I last visited.

So we did wonder if we could walk around the point... absolutely you can, the sands have risen so much now there and at Cathedral cave, you no longer have to worry about getting down here at exactly low tide. You could easily come here now at least 2 hours I'd say either side of low tide. There used to be big rocks with pools around them, they used to have star fish, all that is deeply covered now, no sign of those rocks (in my foto)

As been said, cache has been replaced, I had a 2L container with me and a smaller one inside it, new waterproof paper and rusty hid the cache for us as close as per the description. (fotos added).

Just so you know... it took us just under an hour to leave the beach and get back on Coman's track, then about another 20 mins to return to the carpark.

Attempting this at 9am have previously found the cache but love the views so will check on the cache

I took a group down this morning before the weather set in. Unfortunately there has been alot of erosion in the cave causing more slips was unable to find the cache so it may need to be checked

Find number 5000!

With the 5000 milestone on the very near horizon I have been contemplating a memorable cache to bring up said mark. Well, I have been meaning to do this one for years now and that thought has been in the back of my mind. Once that thought leaped to the front of my mind it seemed the perfect choice. Well, the perfect choice after checking the tides and the swell to confirm feasibility. With a low tide just before 1 pm and only moderate swells, at worst, on a splendid autumn day I had my target locked.

After finding a small number of caches along the way I was ready to begin my descent into Mercer Bay and bag this challenging hide. I carefully made my way down the goat track, yet moved purposely so as to arrive at the beach with the tide still out going. I could feel it in my thighs as they had to act as breaks on the climb down. I didn't mind the heights issue and the rope sections were fun. I hit the bottom with about 10 minutes till exact low tide.

I didn't pause but made my way straight to the first cave. I had committed to memory the instructions on the cache page to avoid any unnecessary fluffing about. Torch out, it was into the cave. Torch light was a little dim (should have changed batteries) but sufficient for this task. I soon popped out into daylight, waited for a surge to dissipate and then dashed through ankle deep water in to the second cave.

I quickly made my way towards GZ through the impressive geological feature. Once at the base of the rockfall I unceremoniously dumped my gear and climbed the final section to GZ. The actual cache was quickly spotted as it was exposed, though securely wedged in. I quickly completed the formalities before returning the cache and applying some small stones to act as natural camo. Took a few moments to contemplate the beauty of the skylight before collecting my gear and retracing my steps. I didn't want to linger with only a few minutes before the outgoing tide turned into the incoming tide.

Once back out on the main beach I took the opportunity to rest, re-hydrate and wring out my wet socks. Then it was time to climb back up the goat track to the loop track. I decided to take it slow, with many micro rests to appreciate the view. Cheers for the epic multi-cache placement! A very memorable way to bring up the 5000 find milestone!

Went twice but the tide was never low enough.
Low tide at 0.4m and waves of 4.3m is still too high if you prepare your visit.
Will go again tough, such an amazing place, enjoyed the climb and the beach sooooooo much!
I could do this every day!
Thank you for this adventure!!!

Also, what chart do you advise because I found so many different charts,
they differ up to 40 minutes for the low tides!

Magic location

Here again with friends on my birthday. Picked up Neighbourhood Watch TB to take on its way. Loved sleeping in here twice in years past. Ben.

Today, our friend Biartch79 invited us to join a group of adventurous people and visit this cache.
We were very happy to join in and we had a great time. The walk to the beach is challenging but totally worthy. It was great to explore the small caves and admire all the sea life.
The cache was found without trouble, and we even found the old container, "lost" since 2008 which was completely unexpected.
Thanks for showing us this lovely location, and thank Biartch79 for the invitation.
Greetings from Portugal.

#10066, Found it with DroidCachebox!

We visited this cache during our trip through out New Zealand!
With our rental car, we explored the north island for 12 days.
NZ is a beautiful country and we really enjoyed our time here.
We hope to return one day and explore a little bit more!

Day 11 - Auckland

Today was our last full day in NZ, and we received a kind invitation from Biartch79 to join a big group that was visiting the cache Holey Mercey.
We had a great time, and enjoyed every minute! The company, the descent, the amazing beach, and of course the caves!
However something quite unexpected happened while looking for the cache, I found the original container, "lost" in 2008!!
Actually, I found it by chance. I didn't read the hint, and my friend pointed out the place she thought was the spot where the cache was. I went there and saw the container in the middle of the rocks. Turns out this was not the "correct" location described in the hint.
Luckily our friend had just visited this cache a few weeks back, so we placed the original container next to the "new" one!
There was even a geocoin inside the "old" container, that was in reasonable condition, although a little bit rusty, but nothing serious; it was nice to rescue this trackable "lost" eight years ago!
The container also a little bit rusty (there was some metallic stuff inside), but the outside was good, it still has the black duck tape covering it.
Certainly a cache we will remember (and actually our last cache find in NZ)!
Many thanks to Biartch79 for the invitation!

Thanks for the cache.
Greetings from Portugal.

We visited this cache today and found the original container, from 2008!! There was even a geocoin inside. Luckily our friend had just visited this cache a few weeks back, so we placed the original container next to the "new" one! More will follow in the log...
Dropped a TB

Very low tide. Beautiful hot day. Noone on the beach. Awesome afternoon. Initiated a couple to the game

Already had plans made with my muggle tramping partner to tramp down to explore the caves due to the perfect tides over this weekend. Instead of joining the geocaching group the day before we changed plans from Saturday to Sunday. It meant a later start, less people and sunny but not burning. Made it down slowly but easily to GZ via the helpful ropes. Geared up with our flash lights and entered the caves 45 min before low tide. WOWWW AWESOME. Made it thru the first part and were even more stunned about the next cave. The treasure was quickly found and we used the remaining time to explore every little bits and parts. Just amazing colours within the walls and wildlife (saw a pink crab)! Best part was that we had the caves to ourselves. Can’t wait to return. Made it back by noon to the car and treated us well with a beer in Piha. TFTC

Highly recommended this is the perfect place to come and visit on a beautiful summers day.


I believe there was about 20 of this morning I had told my friend Lee she was coming no excuses it was time for some real exercise so with minimal sleep due to night shift work we set out to meet everyone here.


Set off about 720am meeting and greeting unfamiliar faces till we ended up in single file heading along the goat track.


Then the fun begins abit of sledging here and there kept the banter lively and the focus of what we had got ourselves into / onto ropes and rocks, gorse and wicked view.


It was slow going down about 1hr 20min with a slight rest before heading to the cave.
Got there 1hr before low tide was the best timing ever.


Had plenty of AA batteries for the torch till I realised that I needed AAA's. My bad turns out the phone torch worked just as well. Single file thru the cave we went having lots of laughter as we fell feet first up to our in shins in water oh well who needs dry shoes in this magical place eh.


Thru the other side Lee and myself was taken back by the awe of the starfish, mussel beds and bull kelp so magical and surreal. Cache found and signed as team mercey.


Brilliant morning out will definitely be back again. All up we did about 5km of walking in 5 hours considering the terrain it's totally worth it.


Tftc and cheers to Gorby and rustynz for setting up this wonderful event.

This is a 10/10 cache. Have been wanting to do this cache for so long and today finally earned the yellow smiley.

From the carpark it took us about 1hr of total downhill including 3 rope sections before setting foot on the sand. From the sand back up to the carpark, around 45mins. Both up & down had many vista stops and was done at a steady pace. Group size around 20.

Time of day (7.20am start) was great because with clear blue skies and very little wind, once the sun got onto the hills it was going to be a scorcher. And yes it was once we left the beach at 10.15am

With Gorby leading the way, we picked our way down the steep terrain and finally stepped onto the sand, all cachers intact. With torches blazing we ambled through the first cave and popped out to some wonderful coastal scenery. After some obligatory photos we wandered in to the next cave to find the cache. No problems there, and duly signed the log as a group.

Back out of the caves to explore the length of the beach.

Fabulous day. Highly recommend this cache. Would easily give it 10 Favourites if I could.

TFTC and the adventure.

Joined the event for the climb down to this one today. An early start highlighted the colours on the sea and bush as the sun slowly came over the hill and made for a cooler walk. Down on the beach and the walk through the caves was fantastic. So cathedral like. The log was signed under the group name and then after we wandered the beach for a while it was back up the hill. A great morning. TFTC!

Why aren't there any dots on the map showing the trail down to the beach? Maybe they would all be on top of each other as the trail is quite steep. Anyways, we had a really good time making the decent to the sand, walking through the tunnel and into the cave. Pictures do not do this landscape justice, but I include some anyways. TFTC.

Was with a large group of cachers.

Took the whole group (of 20) 1 hour and 20 minutes to get to the bottom, with lots of stopping along the way. The larger the group the slower it is. No one had any real issues with the decent. Only took us 45 minutes to get to the top, but I think we would have been quicker if we didn't wait for others.

I loved the caves and the beach. I am pretty sure I will return to this beach again.

Would strongly recommend wearing gloves for the climb, as there is lots of gorse.

I would highly recommend this climb.

Gets a favourite point from me.

Found this together with ~20 geocachers. Thanks!
I really enjoyed the company and steep climb down and up. If I tried this one on my own, the probably my wife and son wouldn't come with me.

Found with approximately 20 other geocachers. An early start and a careful climb down to the beach. The area is beautiful and the challenge was just at the right level for many to be significant but not so desperately dangerous as to be unnerving. Everybody did well to get down and enjoy the caves and the beach. Climbing out was also a highlight as skills required in uphill climbing and use of the aids made available meant upper body strength could be used to compliment the balance and agility that had been required earlier for the descent. A fantastic cache , location, and day with the support of everybody. Once I have edited the video footage and crunched the file to something manageable, will look to post it for every one to see.

Ever since hearing about this cache, I had been keen to give it a go, so when an event was published in order to gather a bunch of cachers together and make the climb, I decided that I would give it a go. I was slightly nervous of the thought of what I had to do to get this cache, but I don't usually pass up the opportunity for a bit of caching adventure, so logged my "will attend", and got ready to climb!

The morning dawned beautifully, and so I met up with UncleSamNZ and Dragon.Griffin, and we set off to the rendezvous point.

Once we had all arrived, we began the trek to the goat track. That was the easy part. The descent itself was just a little more challenging- although, to be completely honest, although hard, it wasn't quite as hard as I expected it to be- I had feared it would be worse. I found that often, crab-crawling, facing down the cliff, with my feet first and on my hands was the easiest and safest way down! It made it easier to sit down, too, when I hit a bit of loose rock.... and I have to say that the flax, and worse- gorse- did have to be grabbed on occasion for a little extra support! It took about an hour 20 to get all of us safely down to the bottom, and I was pleased at how encouraging and supportive my fellow climbing buddies all were of each other.

Once on the beach, the views were simply stunning- breathtakingly beautiful scenery greeted me every where I turned. This place is simply majestic, and I felt as though I had stepped into a small patch of paradise. I never wanted to leave.

We had timed it well for low tide, and had about 3/4 hour before low tide was to hit. So once all 20-odd of us were on the beach, though the first cave we went. I'd never been in a sea cave before, it was a fun, exciting experience. Out the other side we came with only slightly wet feet due to a couple of puddles, and after a few minutes spent enjoying the area, we headed into the cathedral.

Once inside, it was a reasonably quick find of the cache, which we signed as "Team Mercy" to save time and log space.

Back out of the cathedral, we went for a wander along the beach, and just spent some time enjoying this gorgeous stretch of coastline. I took off my boots and walked through the water to the other end of the beach with a couple of friends, then sat down for morning tea and just enjoyed being there.

All too soon, noises were made about going back up the cliff, and so we strapped on our backpacks, guzzled some water, reapplied sunscreen, and off we went. It was a very tiring climb back up, and several water stops were needed, along with sore muscles rested for just a moment or two before carrying on. It was also quite a tough climb, but it was a lot quicker getting back up than I thought it would be- about 45 mins.

Once back up, some of us decided to walk back to the car park along a different route and check out the views from some of the viewing platforms, which were also stunning. We finally made it back to the car park about lunchtime, where we sat and recovered for a bit in the nearest patch of shade!

What an amazing spot, so beautiful and awe-inspiring..... this is one of the reasons I love geocaching. I may not have ever heard of this place, or had the chance to visit, had it not been for geocaching!

Thanks so much for bringing me here- I'm so glad I decided to come! Like some before me, I wish that I could award me than one fave!!!!


To those thinking about doing this cache..... I highly recommend it, Mercer Bay has to be one of the most amazing spots I've visited in New Zealand. It's totally worth it!!!!

All I can say is "wow"! What an amazing place and what an awesome trek/climb/descent to get to the cache. It definitely pushed my physical abilities and I got more than a few scratches from the gorse but it was all worth it. Such an unspoilt piece of paradise and awesome caves to explore. The cache was easily found and signed as 'Team Mercer'. Glad to have this one ticked off and definitely one of the most memorable, TFTC!

Is this possible to do at night? Anyone interested give me a call as I think it would be an added challenge and make it interesting. Midnight challenge anyone? Dont leave it too late, wintyer is approaching

9:00
FITW TEAM MERCEY [Agazo, alpenmilch80, avoyager, Biartch79, Bushbashr, dragon.griffin, evilno9, gincha, Gorbygorbachov, harisree, ivss_xx, Jag50, Lilywyte, mike-miss, NewlynFam, rustynz, Stik-a-crane, UncleSamNZ] Probably I'm still missing someone from today's team of cachers.

"What was the name of the cache again - Holey Moley?"

I enjoyed this thoroughly, but I must admit, I thought it will be tougher. Especially tide-wise. I took a picture before the descent, at 7:38, and after - 10:47, the tides seemed identical. And, as it turned out, to access the cache, you don't even have to walk through the cave tunnel, can just go around the cliff via beach. Actually, there was no way not to get your feet wet, when going through the cave because there were puddles of water inside, some up to knee high in places. But it was possible to just walk around on the beach, staying completely dry

Now I actually kinda want to come to the place when the tide is higher to see how it all looks then

7:21 begin walking from parking
7:36 get off trail and start the climb down
8:18 arrive at the bay
9:00 find the final
10:24 start the climb back up
10:48 back on trail
11:00 arrive at parking
The whole climb up and down took some time because we were around 20 people here, of course
Son of gincha, who is 8 years old, is probably the youngest cacher who has done this to date.

Additional pictures and in my event log here: http://coord.info/GLKW7CNA
Endomondo track of climb here: https://www.endomondo.com/users/10209103/workouts/657621460

Thanks for the cache! +fav
#3633

555
awesome cache for an awesome number, its mere coincidence. found it as part of Team Mercy. An event was organised by Gorby and rustynz and I was super keen to join it. It was a pleasant day and the journey was adventurous. I was prepared for the worst, so it didn't turn out that bad. It was like exploring a whole different world down there. the caves were enormous and the view stunning. climbing up was not so difficult but few drops of blood were spilt as i accidentally hit my knee to a rock which was slightly protruding than i imagined. thanx for this wonderful placement.. and thanx for the whole 'Team Mercy'.

Am planning a night time Event to visit this place to add a degree of difficulty to it, any interest ? Only fools may apply -;). Will check out the tides and moon for suitable dates. Any advice would be appreciated as I havnt done the cache yet.

G--2... having just completed this during the daylight, the night time assault sounds exciting, but need to advise the following....
Going down would in my opinion be the issue... strong lighting would still give shadows where foot holds would need to be as the light source is coming from a headlamp down past the rock face.... coming up you would not have such an issue as the headlamp would provide a light source unobstructed by the rock face, or could be easily corrected by moving the light source attached to ones head.
I am not saying it could not be done... but it would make it a lot more challenging.
Maybe a full moon and early morning so thee light from the moon would be in the western sky, lighting up the rock face more.
In many places there is vertical drops off the edge of the trail.

We (a group of about 15-20) had gathered for a bit of adventure to discover this cache, kindly kept on the correct path by Gorby and Rusty.
Tides were checked and a plan was formulated, and we all headed down the path.... not too long after we arrived at the beginning of the descent to the beach, not too much room for error here, and before long we came to the first of the ropes, gloves could be an asset... after approx. 40 mins we reach the beach and what a view... totally surrounded by rock wall on one side and the sea on the other, and three sea caves of varying sizes.... GZ was located and the formalities completed, then onto exploring the beach and all it's hidden treasures... this is why I cache to be brought to places like this hidden gem in New Zealand....and good company....
The wildlife is nothing like I have seen on other beaches with star fish aplenty and big Kelp plant clinging to the rocks just to mention a few sights.
After approx. 2 hours of exploring we headed up the cliff again which took appox. 30 mins. and then back up to the car park.

signed as Team Mercey.

TFTC.

Wanted a return visit, so created an event with Gorby. We met at 7 am, and our group of cachers and some muggles, we made our way down to the beach.

After a group photo it was time to explore, and for the majority find the multi, hidden in the nearby cave. This has to be my favourite find with geocaching, an amazing place. Thanks again for creating this hide and the adventure

When rustynz said how about another visit to here, I was veeerrryyy keen. Didn't matter that I have already found the cache. You can never get enough of such fantastic scenery.

I led this awesome group of ours down to the beach just to show them the ropes so to speak and if I can do this being 55yrs old, I'm hoping many more keen people who haven't attempted this will give it a go.

Check out the rather large amount of fotos!!

Winter Holidays "on the other side of the world"
DAY 18 - From Wellington to Auckland

The time in NZ is going to end - heading back to Auckland...
NZ is very beautiful, I really enjoyed to be there.
Took the change to grab some challenges and other caches along the route!

This cache war definitely one of the best caches I have ever done!

TFTC and best regards from Germany
blazek

I saw an event for this cache so I just had to come and get it. Such an awesome place to come to. One of Newzealand's best hidden gems. TFTC

Amazing!! Loved it!!

A "Geocaching event" has been created for our visit, the details can be found here: http://coord.info/GC685JW

I will be keen to do this. Thanks.

Count me in again! I loved it so much last time and this time it'll be a morning adventure rather than an evening one.

DATE CHANGE: 16th January (Saturday)

We will meet at the car park at 7.00 am ( S 36° 58.212 E 174° 28.087 ).

We had so much fun visiting the sea caves and finding the cache in April, that we decided we need to come back for another visit! To any watchers you are welcome to join us.

If the weather forecast for the day is not fine weather, then we will not be climbing down to Mercer Bay. We can still do the two caches nearby and the Mercer Bay loop walk. For the experienced tramper, if you want a challenge then a walk to Karekare, via the Comans or Ahu Ahu tracks is just for you.

Found on a day trip from Karekare to Log Race Rd, then back to Karekare. "Popped" (Yeah right) down here for the third time, as last time climbers were attempting the "hole" and rocks were pelting down! Nice quick find once you get there, we got our feet wet! Picked up the Tee-rackable too. TFTC!

One of the best caches i´ve ever been, and this is gonna be one of my favourite places in NZ. Spent the day out there and it was like discovering a new world. Thanks for the chocolate!!!!!

Any sign of Frankie The Fish?

Back again! Visited this cache on Saturday night. Slept in Mercer Bay Cave again, as I did two years ago.
Went at low tide Sat evening and out at low tide Sunday morning (far too early). Scooped out a sleeping platform from the sand slope about 20m above the waves.
It was an extra high tide on Saturday night, and this coupled with the big storm and 90km westerly winds meant the waves in the Cave were just great to watch. A log I noticed on the sand in the evening was jammed in a rock crevice 2m up from the sand. Impressive.
But the highlight was finding a Treasure Chest in the side arm of the main cave. A TREASURE CHEST! I opened it and dug it out. Alas, no treasure. I think it had been opened before and resealed.
Also met a penguin again in the middle of the night. And saw an eel in the waves when we went in! That was bloody strange.
All in all a fantastic night!

And we would have loved your company too SaltyCacheNutZ!!!!!!!!! Another cacher I haven't yet met.

As ever, I thoroughly enjoy reading everybody's accounts of the adventure and reliving the experience vicariously. That silhouette photo in this last log was outstanding.
Glad to hear you all enjoyed the experience and got home safely!

looks amazing but no regrets on my decision. Beautiful photos Gorby. Well done Guys

A bit cross with self for not taking the opportunity & making a spur of the moment decision to join the group! but was not mentally (or physically, LOL) prepared to tackle this cache without a bit of time to psyche myself up. It looks scary! Great pics. Well done you lot.

Had a very nice day caching today, and as arranged I met at the carpark at 2:45pm, then Mr kiwicouple arrived with Ryan his son-in-law, then urbangypsynz and Rebel98 and rustynz.
We packed up all our gear, water, food, GPS's, jerseys, some courage and bravado and off we went in an air of high pitched chatter and enthusiasm. Urbangypsynz had decided awhile ago this descent to Mercer Bay wasn't for her so she went off in a different direction to do some exploring of her own once we departed company.
Made our way down from the given co-ords and the climb down wasn't too bad . I had brought along a 30m rope which I had previously tied knots (for grip) to aid in our descent. It wasn't long before we needed the rope and Rebel98 utilised his scout training and tied some meaty looking knots to the strong gorse branches. Down we went slowly but carefully, taking lots of photos along the way. It was a lot of fun. After some very muddy bottoms, our feet were glad to reach some the sand, it was quite a relief and I'm sure my travelling companions felt the same way. Took us 1hr and 9 minutes for the descent, according to my GPS, I had set a waypoint at the top at 3:09pm and 185m elevation and reaching the bottom at 4:18pm and 5m of elevation. After a refreshing drink and a few minutes rest, the next step was to enter the dark cave of the dragon, we had all brought along torches for that and I for one have never been inside the cave, coming here only once before years ago at half tide. But today it was exciting to walk right through it and out the other side, turned right into the next cave but much larger.
The waves were lapping at the entrance to this cave, so we decided not to linger too long!! Into the abyss we went and a quick ascent to the cache by Ryan and we soon had the log to sign each. Took several photos inside the cave here and looking up I thought the opening looked like the map of Australia! I know people have abseiled down that vertical drop, I probably would too if given the opportunity. So after some more photos we decided to head back, took us awhile that's for sure going back up. But we still had daylight once at the top but only just. Back at the car after much chatting and huffing and puffing we had some much needed coffee and beer! Thanks to the ones who came today, it was a lot of fun to share the adventure with you. Thanks to C.O too for placing the cache.

Well what a adventure thanks to gorby for the special equipment (Rope) and taking the great photo's, special thanks to rustynz for arranging trip. Very special place to visit, cool caves and this took all my energy to do. Great to have mr kiwicouple (Mark) and ryan to join in the adventure glad I can cross this one off my list now to find my next one. TFTC

This has been a long time in the planning, but everything at last fell into place. A note had been placed on the cache page, inviting others to join, and five of us met at the car park. We had been delayed from the day before due to rain, so today with the sun shining, and a 0.2 m tide, at last this was going to happen. No more looking at photos, or watching you-tube clips, today we were going to make our own memories.

The descent took a lot longer than I planned, (I am sure I had read 45 minutes), but if you read Gorbys log add another 15 minutes for the walk from the carpark (just under 1 1/2 hours total) Now I am sure some of you others can do it faster, but we were slow and steady, we all made it back, a little tired but we did it

When we got to the beach, the tide was soon to turn, so torches where retrieved from our bags, and off we went into the cave, splashing through some puddles, getting our boots wet on the way. As we made our way into the "Cathedral" the odd wave surged towards us, a warning not to muck around, and a reminder that sunset was 5.52 pm.

From all that I had seen, I had not realised how high the cave is, and how big the collection of rocks on the ground was, caused when the roof collapsed. We looked so insignificant.

Ryan found the cache, and then climbed up higher, I went as far as the cache, retrieving the two TB's
I sat just looking around, listening to the sea and starring out to the sky!

On the way out we tried to get to the buoy, but I think the sand has built up at the tree, as it did not look like we could get through. Maybe next time?

Once back out on the beach we walked over to the sea arch, already the water had wrapped itself around its base, it was time to leave. The climb up, was easier and took less time, but tested us all. The plan was to be off the goat track by sunset, which we did, then it was the steady climb back to the car.

Urbangypsynz was waiting, no emergency calls required. After the water boiled and the coffees made, we sat chatting, and are already thinking of the next adventure. Thanks for joining in the fun

This cache has been on our radar for a long time and we knew it was one that would be better done as part of a group. So when Holey Mercey was mentioned on another recent Waitakeres outing I jumped at the chance to finally tackle the descent. Plans were made for saturday 18th, but had to be changed when rain swept over Auckland that morning. There would still be enough time to get through the tunnel at low tide and get back up before sunset, but with not a lot to spare.
By the time we met up in the carpark this afternoon the track had had a good 24 hours to dry out. Knowing that this adventure would appeal to one of our sons-in-law I asked Ryan whether he would like to come along. Gorby, Rebel98, rustynz, Ryan and I headed off on the adventure, accompanied as far as the top of the descent by Urbangypsynz who, like Sherrie, had decided that this one was not for her.
The rain had meant that the rocky parts of the climb down had all been washed clean and were as easy as they ever would be. The most tricky bits of the descent were the areas of topsoil which was still a bit slippery. Luckily Gorby had brought along a 30m rope which was tied off at the top of the worst part and made it a lot more passable. We made our way slowly down, taking over an hour, but all arriving at the bottom in good spirits and sound body.
After a short drinks break we donned our head torches and entered the first cave. Even at low tide (and only a .2m tide at that) the sea was not far away from the other end, so we went straight into the next cave. Walking through the short length of darkness and out into the cathedral is quite awe inspiring. Ryan was quickly up to the cache, then explored higher while we all signed the log. Took plenty of photos then headed back out. Just as we were exiting the cave and about to re-enter the tunnel a wave came along and managed to wet us all to between ankle and shin height.
Back in Mercer Bay we explored a bit more and got a closer look at the Arch before deciding that it was time to head back up the track. As often seems to be the case, going up was easier and faster than going down, and we were all back to the top of the climb before dark. Plodded back to the carpark where Gorby fired up his cooker and soon had water ready for a very welcome cup of coffee.
Thanks s01ipsist for one of the great adventure caches. I would probably never have known about the walk through the cave, and would certainly never have done it, without this cache placement. Thanks also to Gorby Rebel and Rusty, and Ryan for helping to make this adventure both possible and enjoyable.

Four of us will be looking for this cache next weekend. To all those cachers that are watching, or know someone who wants to visit Mercer Bay you are invited to come along on this adventure.

Please re-read the warnings on the cache page: it is a D2/T4 1/2 it does involve ropes, heights and caves. If the weather is poor, high winds or stormy conditions (lots of swell) we will leave for another day.

The tide for Saturday, 18th April is best for a visit.

We will meet at the Mercer Bay car park, allowing 30 mins+ to walk from car park to beach. The CO recommends 1 hour (+/-) low tide to enter cave.

Low tide is 3.40 pm, a height of 0.3 m (Piha)

Be aware 5.53 pm is sunset, so we want to be off the beach and up the track long before then!

Holey Moley, I'm in, hook line and sinker!

I've been down to Mercer Bay a few times before but never managed to get all the way through to the skylight cave. With a very low tide (0.2m), calm seas and fine weather it was too good an opportunity to pass up. After looking at photos and reading logs I formed a preconceived notion of where the cache should be located inside the cave - and was completely wrong! Eventually found it after looking on just about every rock in the place. Walked around the point to the beach (on the sand!) then headed south to Karekare. Pretty straightforward on such a low tide.

got a little wet on the way back but this one was awesome

Couldn't believe that this one was there! I've been going to mercer bay for years (prior to geocaching) and never stumbled upon it.

Was an early morning start with low tide being 0820hrs - but got down there around 0945hrs and managed through some waist deep water to find this sucker. Was a fun find with Big Whitey and Foley!

What a find!!!! I had been looking for new places to explore in the auckland region and hidden beaches in particular. After a google search and some debating we decided to head to mercer bay. in our haste i hadn't even contemplated a cache being there. well half way there i checked and low and behold there was one.

We arrived at the car park around 3pm, it was blisteringly hot, but we had a goal. as we kept our eyes peeled for the "goat track" the views from up here just blew us away. we wanted to get to the beach. just up ahead we saw some other folk descending the cliff face. DAMN. we were outta luck on having it to ourselves. no matter we bashed on.

the descent to the beach was great fun, a little hard on the knees and with the sun sitting right above us it was a tad warm to say the least.

upon getting down to the beach the tide was half way out, we ventured into the cave but after reading your warnings decided it would be a good idea to explore the other end of the bay first.

we had a lot of fun, but as the clock ticked on we raced back to the tunnel and emerged victorious the other side. you REALLY do need to go when the tide is out, no chancing it!

we scrambled around the area, found the cache and what do you know, no bloody pen! grand! urgh. so i took some pics of us there to prove we did find it, i plan on returning soon with Ayrshiregirl to show her how amazing this spot actually is.

Many thanks for a fantastic cache, well well well worth a visit!

I've had this cache on my radar for ages now. This is my favourite spot in Auckland.
Last year I slept in this cave. I went in at the 6pm low tide, made a sand platform on the slope and hung out. It was pretty eerie in there at night, completely cut off. A Little Blue Penguin came and said hello in the middle of the night. It's call mystified me completely initially, as I didn't know there were penguins in this area!
My mind was playing tricks on me at times, being such an eerie place - my mind imagined Taniwha climbing out of the water (what would they even look like?!), and the penguin's call initially sounded like the cry for help of a drowning man in the swell outside the cave.
There was a massive storm that night, and heavy rain was pouring in the top of the cave. I was dry, tucked out of the way. Lightning lit up the cave sporadically, which was a sight to behold. And the sound of the big planes going overhead was an unexpected link to civilisation. In the morning, the stream was running big and had eroded the stream way by a foot, creating one of those cool sand cliffs a foot high. Impressive for what was a small stream the night before. I left at 6am in the morning, in time to go and watch Team NZ unfortunately lose a race
I have also been here in a wetsuit with members of the Aucland Speleo Group (cavers). We made our way around to the next bay and found about 700m of unmapped caves, one of which has a similar vertical chamber at the end. It doesn't open to the sky, however. We will be going back this summer with the aid of Piha Surf Rescue who will be dropping us off and picking us up. To anyone reading this: DO NOT SNORKEL AROUND, it was far too dangerous. I'll let the story be untold, but lets just say that it was stupid and almost got out of control. Also, the caves are no where near as impressive as Mercer Bay sea cave.
This cave was re-mapped this year and was mapped at 487.5m long, making it the third longest sea cave in the world. It was mapped by Ian Mander, Peter Crossley and John Selman. It eclipses the Bethell's Beach north cave by two metres. Otago has the longest two mapped sea caves, the longest being 1.5km in length (Matainaka Cave).
On our way down to the cache yesterday we met a family who were well off track. Lucky we bumped into them. They had 5 kids, aged 16, 13, 10, 6 and 3! None were scared or crying. Amazing. We lent them two torches, as they didn't really know about the caves. They were blown away. I also introduced the kids to geocaching, and it will stick with them, I'd say. They signed the log (Pushenko family), and I placed a new log slip in there for when the current log runs out (20 spaces left?).
Placed a travel bug, Jeeping Down Under. This will be one of the coolest places this Jeep has ever been, and as it's summer it hopefully won't be here for too long.
What a long log entry! Will try to upload photos of my overnight stay in there. Thanks heaps!

This entry was edited by bigbenlorax on Saturday, 22 November 2014 at 20:40:04 UTC.

Today the low tide was at 12.10pm which gave us plenty of time to get ready and go to retrieve this cache. We found the track easily, got down to the beach, dropped the bag down by the entrance, took off our shoes, rolled our pants up and decided to explore. We just went into the cave, it turned dark very quickly when i heard the loud noise of a wave coming inside towards us... we were just one hour before low tide so that should have been ok but i got scared and started running out of the cave, but not fast enough and i got soaked up to mid-thigh. so we decided to wait a bit longer and explored the other side of the beach. We found some big mussels and picked up a dozen to cook on the small stove. We found a log which we place in between 2 rocks to make up a seat, dug a small hole in the river bed to wash the mussels and steamed them. DELICIOUS!!!!
Once fed, we decided to try our luck again. We rechecked the tide (yes we had reception on the beach!). the timing was perfect so we ventured back inside the cave. We made it just to the entrance of the second tunnel on the left when another big wave had me climbing the rocks on the side. We realised that we would need to be quick and get wet if we wanted to reach the cache. So we undressed and managed to go from one cave to the other. I have to mention the hole in the sand in between the 2 caves and the water was way higher than my belly button! What a view in that second cave! that drop hole is amazing! and here i am climbing the rocks being careful not to graze anything to retrieve the cache
the way out was harder because we had to fight the current coming out of the first cave. We retrieve our clothes that we had left behind and walked out the cave to get face to face with 3 muggles. that was funny... i dont know who got most embarrassed to see us like that, them or us!!!

At an event in Hamilton yesterday we over heard someone talking about this cache. After checking out the cache page and looking at the tide times, Nova turned to me and asked "what you doing tomorrow?" A few small details were decided on and a plan was hatched, we even included HPG as a tag along, but as she was the person we overheard we thought we better let her come too.

After finding a few caches around Piha, we headed to the start of the track to being the epic adventure. Got to the start of the goat track, and took in the surroundings a figured out where we are heading, before we headed on down and let the real adventure began.

Track was a bit slippery in places and luck would have it that if you slipped the only thing to grab on to was gorse, but we took our time and slowly made our way down to the beach, forgetting at the time that we are going to have to climb back up this track. Once at the beach we found the cave and tentively walked in. What a way to get to this place, out of the dark we were awarded with this amazing framed view. After a bit of an explore we zero'd in on the cache.

I was in awe of this place the full time I was here. It kinda felt that nature allowed us to visit for a short time, but we were only there on her terms. This is one of the best caches I've found, well deserving of a fav point.

Out on a caching mission with Novalightning and HKCB to knock off Holey Mercy. Of course we couldn't ignore the other caches in the area so we left Hamilton early to get in a full days caching.

This was our must do cache today and it did not disappoint. The climb was fun (although I was a little worried on how I was going to get back up) and the views were spectacular. We all made it down unscathed and enjoyed the beach before heading to the caves. We explored all the caves and had a great time while the tide was out, although one big wave almost got us. Cache was found right were it should be and we had a break while enjoying the cathedral.

We drew a smiley on the beach before heading back up the hill. Took me a lot longer to get my short legs up the high rocks than the boys and I may have been a little less fit but got there in the end.

Would give this one a truckload of favourite points if I could! Amazing!

I was attending an event in Hamilton on Saturday when I overheard a cacher talking about this cache. I was told that it was to extreme for me so turned to the person next to me and asked him what his plans were for Sunday.

We quickly checked the tide times and hatched a plan. Only after our plans were set did we have an inquiry as to whether there was room for another to tag along.

This was an amazing cache with a mixture of heights, tides, caves and views. It was hard work but worth it in the end. I took the gopro with me to capture some of the moments, if your interested check it out.

http://youtu.be/Wv_dLMKAYNI

Thanks so much for bringing me here.

Finally managed to get there and find the cache!

Found with our scout troop on a weekend of walking tracks and geocaching around Karekare and Piha. What a wonderful way to finish of Saturday and bring up my 100th cache. We changed our weekends programme around to fit in with the tides after finding out about this cache and the sea caves. It was so worth it! Thanks for showing us a hidden gem.

Found orginally as part of phasevisitor team, now created own account, re-logging as yorkshirekiwi83.

It was a perfect day for a hike out to Mercer Bay and Cathedral Cave today, the weather was stunning and there was a king low tide, which made access to the caves a lot easier. I left Karekare mid-afternoon with a group of muggles and we made our way to the top of the goat track, via Comans Track. The goat track down to the bay was certainly one of the more interesting tracks I’ve been on and was certainly one of the steepest! But after a slow and steady descent down the cliff, I was on the beach without incident.

We were on the beach about 1.5 hours before low tide, but we went and had a look through the caves anyway – the tide was well out already and there were no waves entering any of the caves, at worst I had ankle deep puddles to walk through! After venturing into Cathedral Cave, I made my way as far as I could up the sandy/rocky slope at the back of the cave, then had a look for the cache on my way back down – this made it a bit harder to work out which rock I should be looking around, so I went back to the bottom, re-evaluated where I should be, then made my way back up where the cache was soon found! I then signed the log and 2 muggles that I was with signed their names in the log book too, as they are seriously considering taking up geocaching!

After signing the log, I then went about exploring the caves and taking a few photos, before relaxing on the beach for a bit. We then left Mercer Bay and made our way back to Karekare around the coastline – which isn’t normally recommended, but one of the people I was with has done it before on a king low tide, so knew it could be done in the right conditions. So we rock hopped our way around the shoreline, contended with knee deep water when the waves came in and had one small section that involved a slightly tricky rock climb, but we were back on Karekare beach in no time!

Thanks for a fantastic cache and a memorable day!! This spot is definitely one of Auckland’s hidden gems, and one of my favourite spots now! Favourite point added!

A few photos also added from the day…

Was there with phasevisitor

It was a perfect day for a hike out to Mercer Bay and Cathedral Cave today, the weather was stunning and there was a king low tide, which made access to the caves a lot easier. I left Karekare mid-afternoon with a group of muggles and we made our way to the top of the goat track, via Comans Track. The goat track down to the bay was certainly one of the more interesting tracks I’ve been on and was certainly one of the steepest! But after a slow and steady descent down the cliff, I was on the beach without incident.

We were on the beach about 1.5 hours before low tide, but we went and had a look through the caves anyway – the tide was well out already and there were no waves entering any of the caves, at worst I had ankle deep puddles to walk through! After venturing into Cathedral Cave, I made my way as far as I could up the sandy/rocky slope at the back of the cave, then had a look for the cache on my way back down – this made it a bit harder to work out which rock I should be looking around, so I went back to the bottom, re-evaluated where I should be, then made my way back up where the cache was soon found! I then signed the log and 2 muggles that I was with signed their names in the log book too, as they are seriously considering taking up geocaching!

After signing the log, I then went about exploring the caves and taking a few photos, before relaxing on the beach for a bit. We then left Mercer Bay and made our way back to Karekare around the coastline – which isn’t normally recommended, but one of the people I was with has done it before on a king low tide, so knew it could be done in the right conditions. So we rock hopped our way around the shoreline, contended with knee deep water when the waves came in and had one small section that involved a slightly tricky rock climb, but we were back on Karekare beach in no time!

Thanks for a fantastic cache and a memorable day!! This spot is definitely one of Auckland’s hidden gems, and one of my favourite spots now! Favourite point added!

A few photos also added from the day…

Yes, it is a steep hike, yes it is difficult. But if you want to see what many others will never see, you've got to go places others will never go!
Completely worth it, the caves are amazing!

One of the great adventures during our NZ trip and absolutely amazing! Well worth hiking down it was kind of slippery the way down, maybe cause of the rain . Many thanks for this stunning cache!
Deserves a favorite point from us.

Greetings from Germany

Escape day with a non-caching friend, who checked the tide-charts for the wrong area! As a result, I was collarbone deep in water going through the cave, absolutely soaked but strong enough to push through and time the waves.

My non-caching friend let me all over the place with his descriptions!! No co-ords, we didn't even go through the cave at the start because he mis-read the description, so I had seen many caves before I made it through, and holy... that cave was HUGE! And windy...nWhen we climbed back up we could only then notice the hole looking down.

So I'm soaked to the bone and covered in sand and bruises and I cannot find this thing without hints and co-ords - 20 mins later I'm happy. And sore! Absolutely lucky chance find. There was only the log book in the container, which was in good nick - so I left my pen inside and some power-rings. Please don't put on the rings, they're cursed - so you can't take them off forever.

Thanks for the cache!

Mr and Mrs Jacksonz were at Mercer Bay as part of the 1001 Arabian Nights LARP, playing Persians fleeing invading Greeks. We fought a running battle along the track with only a few of us getting to the Mercer Bay turn off without being killed or captured by the (NPC) Greeks (the track seemed much, much longer on the walk back afterwards). Was surprised at how practical a sack tied from corner to corner with rope was for carrying food drink and a treasure chest, both during the running battle, and later climbing down (and later back up) the hill.

After the LARP was over we had the opportunity to explore and I found the cache. Arrgh - no pen or pencil. Packed it away, and ran back through the caves to the others - no one had a pen or pencil with them (Greeks and Persians not big on writing obviously). So I took my phone headed back to get a photo of the log as proof of being there. When heading back to the cache I was surprised to find the gap between the caves waist deep, where previously it had only been ankle deep. Definitely made me do a very hasty re-find and sign. But heading back out was surprised to find bare sand. Nipped around the corner to then have a large wave chase me up the tunnel. It is scary how rapidly the depth can vary at the sea mouth of these caves.

The climb back up was long and slow, on a scorching hot summer's day. Glad to have brought 2.5l of water with us. We used it all. A great spot well worth the visit (my previous visit was over 30 years ago). TFTC.

#3 in Rambler's Reward Challenge (GLC0J8F8)

This entry was edited by Jacksonz on Friday, 20 December 2013 at 10:55:35 UTC.

Just passing through with Arman2000 on a great adventure along the ridge track between Log Race Road and Karekare to the south. I have been here before about a year and it was just as awesome this time again. All is well with the cache, but the TB is not in there. Cheers.

I slept in this cave in July 2013, in a platform I dug in the sandy slope. The tide came in and out over night. Was great fun. Pity I didn't think of checking for caches before I went! I'll get it another time.

Revisit in the Company of Mikemiss, Slash-key, Tofska, Lemski, Evilno9 and Muggle friends.

Just as good the second time. Maybe this way in next time... http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RH3SLiyjXOY

Thanks again

Wow. What can I say. I'm nearly lost for words. But not quite. This cache was EPIC!

I'd only found out about this cache a few days earlier when I read about Greenblat, evilno9 and mike-miss' plans to find this cache on the weekend. Hadn't committed to coming until the cacher catch up event on the Saturday morning at which I easily twisted my own arm to come!

Hiked over from Karekare along Comans Track. As we approached I was thinking where in the Dickens are we going to get down there!? Got to the top of the goat track down and met up with tofska (good to meet you!) and Lemski and a couple muggle friends of (I believe?) evilno9 and we carefully made our way down.

At the bottom had a breather and kitted up our headlamps for the tunnel and made our way through. Couldn't avoid finally getting my shoes wet in a bit of ponded water as we passed through, oh well. Came out the other side and everyone was cameras out exploring the end of the caves and all the marine life.

Headed into the cathedral and mike-miss and myself completed the final scramble to GZ to the cache and did the paperwork.

We took our time on the way out exploring some of the other caves. Found a bunch of crabs in nooks and crannies all over the show, they must have been freaking out from us! Wandered down the right hand side cave too and saw the buoy; I wonder how that got in there!?

Back through the cave to the main beach where Greenblat "logged" his smiley, which, was later given more of an identity by some later muggles to the bay.

Bumped into a colleague from work just as we were heading to the bottom of the goat track to climb back out - what were the odds of that happening!

Got to the top and had a decent break before heading back to Karekare the way we came, luckily it was mainly downhill this way.

This enabled me to cross another D/T grid square crossed off!

Definitely a favourite from me for this hidden gem, I hope I get return sometime! Thanks!

This cache has been at the top of my to-do list since i started caching around 3 years ago now. A last minute plan was hatched with evilno9, Greenblat, tofska and Lemski to head down today as low tide was around 3.30pm. The event earlier on in the day ensured we had another keen, so slieschke joined us for our days adventures.

The mornings adventure had us caching up the Company Stream. After lunch at the Karekare Beach carpark, we had abit of time up our sleeve so the call was made to walk the Coman Track from Karekare and then head up the Mercer Track to the start of the descent.

Once at the start of the Goat Track, we met up with a couple of evilno9's mates before descending down the cliff. Its certainly hard to believe that there is a somewhat of a track from the view from the top to the beach below! The track was alot better than i was expecting and we had no dramas making it to the beach. We had timed the descent perfectly as well as it being a fairly calm day weather wise, so were able to head straight into the cave for our next little adventure.

The cave itself was an easy walk, although we had to dodge some fairly decent sized puddles and some fairly deep too. We made it out the other end and the there was no swell at all. A couple of larger waves coming through but nowhere in close proximity of the cave. A few minutes were spent taking some pics before heading through to the next cave. All i can say is a big "WOW" as it was rather awe inspiring to see nature at its rawest form. What a truely epic little spot here!! The climb down was worth all of its 4.5T rating but completely worth it!! We all admired the view before me and slieschke (the only one's who hadn't already found the cache) clambered up the rocky outcrop to GZ. Cache was soon found and log signed.

We took our time admiring the view of such an amazingly epic location before heading back through the main cave. The water was so flat that we were in no pressure from rushing back. We all took our time taking photos and exploring the area.

Once back through the main cave, we enjoyed the beach before making the slog back up the hill in the afternoon sun. This is such an epic place for a cache and i can't believe its been more than a year since the last visitors. This is possibly my most memorable find to date and can't wait for my next visit back here!! Thanks very much to the cache owner for pointing out to us geocachers this awesome little spot. This cache has given me a new appreciation for how awesome Auckland is! A little harder to get to but all the more rewarding!! Epic favourite point added!!

I've tried it but I can't reach it. The storm was to heavy and the waves to high also by low tide..

But I'll coming back

I might be revisiting this cache this weekend (23 or 24 March 2013) just for the fun of it and so that my son can log a visit to the cache. It's a magical place, so I don't mind going back. Saturday looks like the better tide window considering shrinking daylight hours. Consider bringing rubbish bags for a CITO-style approach. Any takers please feel free to send me a note or just show up--the tide window is not that long.

I should preface this log with the fact that I should never have attempted this cache. This experience has taught me to know my own limits

I didn't go specifically for the cache but because a friend invited me. I expected it to be hard, but I didn't realise just how hard it would be for me.

We arrived about 4.30pm. The trip down wasn't too bad. I was a little concerned when we reached the first rope. I was a little uncertain the best places to step but Derek guided me when I needed it. I had a few misgivings, and wondered whether I should turn back, but I thought I could do it.

We get to the bottom and I am already tired. Derek gets out a couple of head torches and we head into the cave.

While signing the log, a strong gust of wind blows it out of my hands. Derek is awesome though, and chases it down, no harm done! We replace the cache and head back out.

I am tired from the walk down, and worried about how I am going to get back up that cliff. Derek had heard that it might be possible to walk around to the next bay and it might be easier for me that way. Derek returns with the news that it doesn't look like I would be able to get out that way without jumping from rock to rock, which I don't trust my ability to do. So the cliff it is.

I was not happy at the thought of the climb back up, but I knew I had no choice. We start and I realise how tough this is going to be. I am just too tired already, my legs don't want to move, as we slowly crawl up the cliff. I am feeling awful, as I remember just how far it is. We reach the first rope up, and I just don't know how I am going to do it. I feel like crying as I look at the rocks. Derek is wonderful though, he brought a climbing rope which he tied around me and attached to the top. Climbing up was still hard, but at least I knew that I couldn't fall off. But we still had 3/4 of the way to go.

The climb just got harder and harder for me. I was exhausted, I felt like I couldn't move any more, but somehow I just had to keep going. It's getting darker and I start worrying that we aren't going to make it to the top before sundown. Derek reassures me that we have the head torches and that they let off a lot of light and we will be fine. He distracts me during the climb with stories. It starts to rain briefly, but thankfully passes over quickly. I am getting cold so Derek gives me his raincoat, assuring me that he is wearing a thermal and that he is warm enough. I struggle on as best I can, resting often, but only for a minute as we need to keep going to not get cold. Derek finds a sheltered spot to rest each time, but it's still cold when we stop. Derek assures me that my fingers and lips aren't blue so I am okay. It gets dark and we still have so far to go and I am very worried. The only thing that kept me from freaking out was that Derek is experienced and that I know if it really gets bad, he can get to the top and call for help. Several points I seriously consider that I might end up needing search and rescue, and I briefly wonder whether I could die of hypothermia before they could find me. When we stop for rests, I no longer have the energy to sit up and lie curling up in a ball. All I want to do is stay like that and sleep, but Derek wont let me of course.

I was so happy to see the final rope, knowing that we were almost back on the path, and after that I felt that it would be okay, I could get there. Walking instead of crawling was a relief, but it was still the hardest walk I have ever done. Derek pointed out the light of the lighthouse so we could see how close we were. I have never been so happy to see my car as then, though I don't have the energy to drive and hand the keys to Derek. Finally in the warmth of the car I can relax. It is just past 9pm, and the whole trip took over 4.5 hours. I have no idea how long the climb up took, it felt like forever.

This is one cache I will never forget, I really feel I earned that 4.5 terrain.

Truly one of the greatest caches I have experienced. Hiked all the way down. Beach was beautiful. Waited for Low tide. Found a Baby? (smallish) seal near the cave entrance. Walked thru the scary cave to the daylight. Waves were still crashing pretty deep into cave. I was able to run down on an outgoing wave to see the next cave. Took off my pants so they wouldn't get soaked. Ran with the wave into the next cave, where it got deep on my retreat into Cave two. Soaked up to my waist. Now I am thinking I might have gotten tides wrong so I quickly grab the cache, retreat back out with the outgoing waves. Next I search the other leg of the tunnel, I think I saw the bouy but can't be sure, it was too scary and there was Seaweed hanging from the roof of the now tiny cave in a spooky way. After seeing the seal hiding and a tiny Man of War jelly, I was cautious at best. Back out to beach, into what was left of the sun. Explored the Beach. Signed my name HUGE. Then back up the hill. This cache and little blue on Karekare made a perfect day. Thanks-

This cache has been on my to-do list for some time now and I’m glad it has all finally come together. Good weather and a proper tide window with plenty of daylight helped make this trip successful. Most of my weekends recently had been booked with kids’ sport, and for those that were open, the weather was either rubbish or the tide times were all wrong for the amount of daylight remaining. But this time it was all go!

Despite all the cars in the lot, we could tell from the absence of footprints on the beach way down below us that we would be the first to get to the bay today. We had planned this one just right, hitting the beach about a half-hour before low tide. This gave us plenty of time to explore.

The run into the cave was simply amazing with the tide out and a small freshwater stream coursing through along the cave floor. The lighting was just perfect so that if you turned out the torches, you could still vaguely make out the cave walls from all the reflecting light. Skirting small waves at the far side, we turned into the big room and headed up toward GZ. It was like one of those discovery moments…and wow, there it is!

I can’t believe that it’s been about 20 month since the last find was logged in the book here. My daughter found the cache while I was on the wrong set of big/little/big rocks. The cache container (with plenty of space for TBs) was perfectly intact and totally dry. Took the one trackable that was in there and left another trackable to the next visitor.

This is such an awesome place for a cache and without this one inviting us down for a visit, I probably would not have ventured into here. I just might have to upgrade my membership just to award a favourite point for this cache! I’ll upload some photos later. So, thanks to the CO for setting this one up!

Came down here this afternoon - spring low tide - perfect!! Had to show this magical place to my visiting overseas family and my kids and friends.

Did not have a writing stick, so could'nt write in the log ( so bring you own pen!!)

Cache is in perfect dry condition!!

Thanks again for showing us this place!!

Gr8dad

Had a 'walk' down to the beach today - a very magical place...but unfortunatly the tide was not in my favor and I could only get half way through the passage....will try again - and get better tide tables ....took a couple of photos

Fantastic little adventure this was with AK_hazard, evilno9 & snakelion. An awesome climb down and back, and inbetween got to experience such an isolated spot. As described unfortunately was no sign of the original cache bar a few broken pieces of polystyrene, but was we came prepared and cache was replaced. Took a minute to explore the caves and the vastness of the beach before the scramble back up the cliff and home and again. Awesome experience!! Thanks for such an awesome cache

Had grand plans to do this last week for my 500th but the swell wasn't on our side and so we disappeared into the Parahaha stream instead for a great old day out. Today however, the weather was great and a low tide at 5:20pm meant that myself, AK_Hazard, Mel_Ramsay and Snakelion were able to make the decent to the the bottom.

Our first surprise was just how busy it was here, the car park area was full and a group of Russians were stocked up and heading off down the track as we ambled along the top admiring the view before we worked our way down.

The descent was about as easy as you could hope for with AK_Hazard leading the way as he'd been down many times before in the past. It was nice dry without being too dry to crumble the rocks and we were soon down on the sand admiring where we'd come from and heading in the direction of the first cave.

We got through without getting much more than our ankles wet and soon entered the main cave - what an amazing place... We soon found some remnants of polystyrene in the general search area including signs of recent rock falls (but no sign of a log book?) and a replacement cache was put in its place. It's now a 2L blackened sistema hidden under some small rocks on the big rock above the big rock in the middle. Though in my excitement I may have forgotten to leave the pencil after signing the log. Sorry!

With the tide still far enough out to not be a problem we had time to have a quick explore of the other caves before heading back to the beach and up the hill and home. (Perhaps not quite as easy as that would suggest).

This was perhaps the most enjoyable cache I've been able to do yet - it was a challenge to get to, but all the more rewarding because of it.

TFTC(liff)!

This entry was edited by evilno9 on Saturday, 19 February 2011 at 03:12:35.

This seemed a very popular spot today. Our team for this adventure, AK_Hazard - the leader, mel_ramsay and evilno9, made the way to the top of the cliff and started our decent with hopes of having great fun and of course signing the logbook. The veiws, the tracks and ways of getting down was just mind blowing and I had an awesome time doing all that while trying not to slide down the cliff.

Once we hit the sand and looked around, felt like I was in a lovely paradise. It is like a hidden gem to be discovered by many. The walk through the caves was splendid and the starfish were like the decorations on the cave entrance. We got to the final coordinates and after some extensive search, the original cache was nowhere to be found and since it was to be replaced, evilno9 brought one with him for that.

The cache was hidden again where the description was indicating. We had enough time to admire the views before heading back to the cliff. This was an yet again an amazing day and adventure with the right team.

TFTC s01ipsist

Not much more to add from the two posts below. An awesome afternoons adventure with evilno9, mel_ramsay and snakelion. The tide, weather and company were perfect. Definitely a magical West Coast spot!

Visited Piha specifically to find this cache, when we went, no one had been here in more than 3 months, even brought a replacement cache along with us as we reat that the previous one may be crushed. Found the start of the 'goat track' however the rocks were crumbly and it looked as though there was a very steep drop if I slipped, got scared. My girlfriend took some pics of me part way down, and this pic I took with the camera already pointing down 45 degrees. Was this the correct location for the start of the 'goat track' ? If so we may try again in the future. I did expect to see a rope around this area tho, couldnt find one. I see that others found the spot only a few days later. Have uploaded a picture anyway.

The cache has been destroyed by a large rock crashing into it. Please try and bring a replacement container whoever is lucky and brave enough to visit next.

What a day.

I do look at terrain ratings and wonder if they are what they are. A 4.5 rating? A cache budokan and I have talked about doing for around 2 years? Not found for many months? Youtube videos to show what you need to do to get to it? I know, lets take my 12 year old son and my 9 year old daughter.

I did have my moments on the way down, thinking of a caching accident that happened in south australia a couple of weeks ago, and what I was asking my kids to do as they hung to ropes and lost skin and ripped their pants. Budokan was ever present as their close uncle, supporting and reasurring them all the way down.

And down they went. We got to the beach right on low tide, but there was some serious surf rolling in. Budokan went straight into the cave followed by us all but he was soon telling the kids to turn and go back to the beach as the tide had turned and it was no place for them. With the kids safe I followed budokan to find when the swells rolled in it was waist deep. Thought I picked my moment but was wrong. If anyone finds good sunnies let me know.

We both made it into the main area but the tension was high, with the tide starting to roll in and the kids waiting for us we wanted a quick find. That we got but were bummed out as the container was smashed. We still got to sign the log and whilst budokan had thought about bringing an emergency cache neither of us had one. He fixed it the best he could but I was off to the kids. The swells were half way up the cave now but since it was still low tide waist deep soon became knee deep if you picked your moment. We were around and out with the kids nice and quick.

After some water, K bars and barley sugars we started the climb back up. I remember reading a log that said ropes were not needed on the way up. I had two little monkeys with me and they flew back up the track. Faster going up, apart from a not so fit dad. Budokan who is in training for a 24 hour rogain did it easy.

I had fun explaining this cache to my wife, as I told her the kids had an education today. It did not help when my son told my wife that when he had just made it to the bottom of the cliff he told me he thought I was insane.

Whilst I loved the cache and am happy to have said I have found it, the biggy for me today was learning stuff about my kids. I knew they were tough, I knew they could have a go and push themselves, and to see them overcome some fears today was priceless. If it was not for a cache I would not have come to this wonderful part of our planet, but I also would not have seen my kids at their finest, something I am proud to say my greatest mate budokan witnessed today. I know he was also proud of them.

What an awesome day. I know budokan will elaborate more on our day, but I will sleep well tonight thinking about my kids cracking this cache. They may have not made it to GZ, they would have if not for the swell, but they made it down and back up the track. They cracked the 4.5 rating.

SL TFTC Hanjac from aussie

Heard about this one from Tramper Ted a couple of years ago and decided my mate hanjac would be the perfect man to accept the mission. Only problem is he only gets to these shores about once a year but the last couple of visits despite trying just didnt result in us getting out this way.

This time the weather and the tides were perfect so a mission was launched. He was on father duties so Miss Han(3 days shy of her 10th birthday!)and Master Jac were "persuaded" to come along. They were real troopers and I am sure in a few years time they will reflect on the fact they were lucky enough to say they had touched this beach.

Fair to say the route down was tough and all of the 4.5 terrain. I do have a 5 which involved a 12500ft mountain but this was steeper. Took longer than hoped for and once we started through the cave we were about 10min after true low tide. A 4m swell didnt help and in the end the poor kids were sent back when the waves proved to be a lot bigger than was safe. Hanjac has just given up smoking and the losing of his sunglasses at this point surely tested his nerves -:)

Found the second cave and it was awe inspring at GZ itself. What a spot. Really sad to see the cache destroyed. Judging by the remants it looks as if it was damged from something coming down from above than from the sea below. Had thought about bring a replacement in case there was a problem but I am sorry to say I completely forgot.

I will post a maintence log so hopefully the next brave group can bring a container. This is a truely awesome cache and it needs to be kept going though I understand the owner may not be able to visit easily so its up to the next person to help. So far its right up there for budokans "cache of the year" award. Only a third of my caches are actually here in NZ but no question we have the very best of the epic scenery
TFTC

Added a video link http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VOPi6Q654uA

One for the ages. I will recount this story many a time. A truly worthy cache and the one of the examples that you can hold up as a reason for being a part of this game.
I visited a place I would never have seen with friends I would have never had without caching.

An awesome experience and well worth the effort. It was a shame we had to leave a few back in the car due to them being ill.

Thanks for placing this here.

Out with -OGP-, Gadget-tron and GreenblAt.
This cache was on our ToDoList for a long time. Today the tide was right, (extra) low at 19.04.
Left the car park around 17:30. A nice walk to the turnoff point. Nice descend, which was a bit higher as I thought it was gonna be.
When all save down on the beach we headed towards the cave entrance. With only 1 good head torch and one with low batteries it was a bit dark, but we managed to make it through.
Wow, what a great spot, this must be one of my best caches so far.
Quickly located the cache which had a book "where is Bin Laden". Mmmm maybe he is in a cave?
After enjoying the beach and surrounding we headed back up the cliff and back to the car park.

Thanks for great afternoon out.

TFTC

Have only been caching for a few months and this one has been talked about by the Eastern Cachers for a while. Reading the logs and seeing the photos really built up the anticipation and Mrs Gadget-Tron was really nervous letting me go find this cache with the boys. Got to the car park and commenced the walk down to the next WP. Got to the "Trail" and began to realise that it was a long way down and more vertical than I was expecting. We commenced the slow decent down the rock face and I was pleasantly surprised that the trip down went smoothly and reasonably quickly. This would have been treacherous if the rock face had been wet. Got to the cave and rounded the corner into the main cave. It was really breathtaking once in the cave and we took a moment to appreciate the beauty and ruggedness of it all. Cache was soon in hand and we then made our way out of the cave to appreciate the views of this unspoilt bay. Looking back up to the trail you wondered how the hell you managed to climb down that??? Headed back up the trail and back to the car park. What a truly monumental cache and will be one worth talking about for a good while. Thanks to the guys, -OGP-, Greenblat and KiwiLeon for making this a truly memorable experience. TFTC

This is a kind of 'Holy Grail' cache that has been firing the imagination since it was placed. Has taken all this time for alignment of people, days-off, tides, daylight, and weather to finally have the perfect window of opportunity and a great team in place to make the mission a reality.

WP for the goat-track turnoff was bang on and we were soon committed into the descent. It was steep as expected but no really scary parts. You do need to take care but there are very few bits where you could liklely fall any great distance, and even though there are ropes on 3 or 4 sections, they are not entirely necessary.

The beach is amazing, pristine, and looking back at the cliffs makes you wonder how you got down as ther is nowhere I would consider to climb up if starting afresh from the bottom. The caves were teaming with starfish and crabs and the photos from the rest of the team will tell the story.

Thanks to KiwiLeon, GadgetTron,and -OGP- for the teamwork and making this possible. Comiserations to team Nutcase99 who had to sit back at the car dealing with a sudden case of stomach bug. Thanks to s01ipsist for an outstanding cache placement and taking us to a place that would otherwise be written off as inaccessible.